England new boy Cook extends Essex deal

Essex seam bowler Sam Cook has signed a new three-year contract with the county.

The news followed the 27-year-old's inclusion in the England squad for a one-off Test match against Zimbabwe, starting at Trent Bridge on 22 May.

Cook is the current Essex vice-captain and has taken 318 wickets in first-class cricket at an average of just 19.77.

His new deal will run until the end of the 2028 season and he said: "Extending my contract with Essex was an easy decision. I have had some special memories at the club during my career so far, and I'm incredibly happy to be staying for another three years.

"The support I've received from the members and fans has been fantastic. I am determined to repay that faith with my performances on the pitch."

Cook was a member of the Essex team that won the County Championship in 2017 and 2019 and T20 Blast in the latter year.

He also took 4-18 as Trent Rockets won the 2022 final of The Hundred.

"Sam has proved himself as one of the best bowlers in the country," said Essex director of cricket Chris Silverwood.

"He is an integral member of the squad both on and off the field and to have him at Essex for three more years is brilliant."